top of page

SUPPORT NETWORK –  DOLPHIN RING

When a dolphin gives birth, she is supported and protected by the whole pod.  The mother dolphin is surrounded by an intimate circle of females who swim around her in a circle to protect her during labour.  They might intervene, gently nudging the calf to help it emerge, but mostly they form a barrier between the labouring mother and the rest of the ocean.  In a wider circle the remaining females of the pod form another ring.  Wider still, the males of the pod form a final protective ring, separating the birthing mother from the rest of the ocean.  It is a perfect example of the delicate balance that we need to achieve – giving the birthing mother space to birth but protecting and supporting her so that she can birth free from fear and harm.

 

Think about your dolphin ring – who is in your intimate circle of supporters? Your partner? Midwife? Doula?

And who are your wider network of supporters? 

 

A strong network of social support during pregnancy is good for mother and baby…

Research shows that women who have strong social support during pregnancy have lower levels of depression during pregnancy and after birth, better progress during labour and better agpar scores for baby after birth.

 

You will meet other women at prenatal yoga who are in a similar position to you, maybe even due at the same time….

It is a great opportunity to make connections and maybe develop friendships that might form part of your social support network during pregnancy and postnatal…

 

So after class, why not stay for the free ‘Dolphin Ring’?

… a chance to meet others, ask your teacher questions and have a hot/cold drink?

​

Each week there will be information and handouts on the topic/theme of the week for example active birth, the pelvic floor, coping with pain during labour, yoga positions and breathing for labour, etc…

bottom of page